With the “unofficial” start of summer upon us, urgent care centers anticipate peaks in ailments related to warm weather and traditional summer outdoor activities. MedExpress, an urgent care provider serving over two million patients a year at 129 centers in nine states, traditionally sees peaks in summer ailments across a wide range of categories including sunburns, accidents, dehydration, heat stroke and exhaustion, bee stings, poison ivy and bug bites.

“It’s no surprise that summer and warm weather bring an increase in accidents and outdoor-related illnesses and injuries,” said Thomas Pangburn, M.D., MedExpress. “We see predictable upticks this time of year in everything from sunburn and bug bites to injuries caused by outdoor activities or home improvement projects. In 2013, from March to July alone, we saw an 85% increase in the number of insect and allergic-related visits.”

Many summer ailments can be easily avoided by following a few summer safety tips, however if unsure about the severity of an issue, always consult a health care professional to discern the best treatment option. Urgent care centers often offer extended weekday and weekend hours to assist with unexpected summer ailments.

BurnsAvoid the sun between the hours of 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. when the sun is at its strongest. Remember to wear light, breathable fabric and apply at least a 30 SPF sunscreen, even on overcast days.

Heat ExhaustionHeat exhaustion occurs when the body is unable to efficiently cool itself to maintain a normal body temperature. Dehydration, alcohol use and overdressing also prevent the body from cooling itself correctly. Heat cramps, indicated by heavy sweating, fatigue thirst and muscle cramps, are the first stage of heat exhaustion. Rest in a cooler location, drink cool fluids, apply cool water to the skin and rest with legs elevated above heart level.

Bites and StingsThe symptoms of insect bites and stings vary depending on the severity of the body’s reaction to the insect’s venom. Most mild bites and stings can be treated by applying a cold pack or hydrocortisone cream. Refrain from scratching, which can lead to infection.

Community-based urgent care centers are staffed by licensed physicians and full medical support teams to help patients find relief. With no appointments necessary and most insurance accepted, each facility can treat injuries and illnesses, including broken bones, cuts, burns, colds and flu. They can also handle lab work, minor surgeries, X-Rays and offer access to most common forms of prescription medications.

About MedExpressMedExpress is a national leader in delivering high-quality, convenient and affordable walk-in care for those seeking medical treatment for illness and injury, as well as preventative care and wellness services. MedExpress also offers treatment for workplace injury and job-related medical issues to employers and their employees. MedExpress operates full-service, walk-in health care facilities that are open 12 hours per day, seven days a week, and always have a fully staffed medical team on site. MedExpress currently operates centers in nine states and employs more than 3,000 people. MedExpress has administrative offices in Morgantown, W.Va., and Canonsburg, Pa. For more information, visit http://www.medexpress.com.